Like many across the nation, Philadelphia’s working families are struggling harder than ever to make ends meet. For workers without paid sick days, a bad case of the flu or a child’s fever can mean the loss of a much-needed paycheck or even a job.

Manufacturing industry workers are struggling with job and financial insecurity. Few have access to the basic flexible workplace policies they need to manage their responsibilities at home and on the job.

When it comes to ensuring decent working conditions for families, the latest research shows many U.S. public policies still lag dramatically behind all high-income countries, as well as many middle- and low-income countries.

A growing number of employers recognize the benefits of flexible workplace practices. These employers know that setting workplace standards that promote flexibility and allow workers to meet the dual demands of work and family improves employee productivity, loyalty and retention—creating happier, healthier workplaces, and better bottom lines.

Every day, working women and men in the United States struggle to meet the dual demands of work and family because their workplaces are without basic family friendly policies. It is long past time for workplaces to reflect the needs of 21st century working families, which for many include the ability to care for children, family members and elderly relatives while also being productive, responsible employees.

Hourly, lower-wage workers are much less likely than salaried, professional employees to have workplace flexibility. Many are required to work in shifts that are unpredictable and constantly changing; they may be asked to work overtime with little notice; and they seldom have leeway to arrive late, leave early, or take time mid-day to deal with family or medical emergencies.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) gives millions of nursing moms the support and protection they need. The National Partnership for Women & Families and the United States Breastfeeding Committee would like to clarify the scope of this important new provision in the law and address some misconceptions expressed during the Ways and Means Committee hearing.